"Are you out of your mind?!" Tristan's father bellowed as he scolded him. Tristan lowered his head, absorbing the torrent of his father's anger.
"You've been hanging out with mafias? For years, our family has been known for its professionalism, steering clear of scandals, and commanding respect. We've worked tirelessly to uphold our reputation, yet here you are!" His father's fury was palpable. "Associating with the Fuentebella underboss? Foolish! How will I face our relatives and colleagues now that your face is plastered all over the internet?"
"Dad, what's wrong with being friends with him? We've known each other for years, and he's a decent person," Tristan countered, attempting to defend his choices.
"A decent person? You dare call a murderer decent? Mafias are not to be trusted! They operate outside the law, and they're dangerous. Sever your ties with them, or I'll disown you!" his father said.
"Honey, please, he's your son," Tristan's mother interjected softly.
"I have no son who tarnishes our family name!" his father shot back, his gaze piercing.
Tristan clenched his fists. He couldn't abandon Kaye and the others—they were his true family. These people before him were not his real family; they belonged to the former owner of this body. He didn't truly belong in this household. Thus, he resolved to choose Kaye and the others.
"Fine," he declared.
His parents fell silent, stunned.
"If you want to disown me, so be it. For years, I've been the obedient son, conforming to your desires. I've never made decisions for myself; it's always been you dictating my life choices. But not anymore. I'm done living by your rules. I will never cut my relationship with them; they are my family. With them, I feel valued. I don't have to prove myself to earn recognition; I am free to be who I am," he asserted.
The memories of the former Tristan remained in his memory, so he knew his past struggles and how his family controlled him. It's time to break free from this family.
His father's eyes widened in disbelief. "What did you say?!"
"Tristan, please reconsider. Your father only wants what's best for you. You don't have to leave," his mother implored tearfully.
"Why are you pleading with this ungrateful child? If he wants to leave, let him!" his father said to his mother and then looked at Tristan again. "You're no longer a part of this family. Leave and never return! I won't have a son like you!" his father's voice cracked with emotion as he delivered his ultimatum.
Tristan looked at his mother, sadness etched on his face, then bowed and walked away without a word, leaving everything behind.
"Don't ever come back!" his father shouted.
Tristan could still hear his mother's cries as he closed the door. He headed to his car, started the engine, and drove off.
Upon arriving at the mansion, Tristan spotted Kaye waiting for him outside.
"Sweetheart!" Kaye exclaimed, rushing to him. "Is everything alright?" she asked, her concern evident.
Forcing a smile, Tristan nodded. They entered the mansion and settled in the living room to talk. He told them what happened.
"I'm sorry," Kaye said, her voice filled with regret.
"It's not your fault, sweetie. Leaving was my decision," Tristan reassured her.
"If only we had been more careful. This wouldn't have happened. It's my fault; I've brought trouble upon all of you," Haru lamented.
"None of us saw it coming. Besides, we also need to go out and relax. It's just the gossip mongers who thrive on this stuff," Kyle remarked.
Turning to Sheen, Tristan inquired, "What did your manager say?"
"He scolded me for almost an hour. Some of my sponsors canceled their support, and upcoming projects were scrapped. I'll have to lay low for a while and issue a statement," Sheen explained.
"And Kurtis?" Tristan asked.
Kurtis finally arrived, taking a seat beside them. "The hospital fired me," he announced.
"What?" Kaye gasped. "That's too much!"
"They suspected that I might be involved in illegal activities because of my association with Fuentebella. They didn't want the hospital to be implicated in any scandal, so they terminated my employment immediately to protect their reputation," Kurtis explained.
"They were heartless!" Cedie exclaimed.
"Now, what do we do?" Kaye wondered aloud.
Mikhail arrived just in time. "You've all been dragged into trouble because of my family, so I'll take responsibility," he declared.
Everyone turned to him, listening intently.
"Fuentebella's new business involves building a hospital exclusively for family members and affiliates. Additionally, we've decided to establish a school for the children of our members. This school will not only provide education but also train them to become worthy future members of Fuentebella," Mikhail announced. "I will hire Kurtis and appoint him as the director of the hospital, while Tristan will assume the role of the school director. What do you guys think?" he asked.
Their eyes widened upon hearing his announcement.
"I won't refuse that offer. All I want is a place where I can utilize my skills freely and earn a living," Kurtis stated.
"I'll accept your offer as well. Since I've been disowned by my family and may also lose my job at the university, I'd be grateful to work at your school. Thank you for your assistance," Tristan added.
"Kurtis will also serve as our family's doctor. By owning a hospital, we ensure that our visits are discreet and safe. The same goes for the school; I plan to enroll our children there," Mikhail elaborated.
Everyone nodded in agreement, acknowledging Mikhail's foresight in ensuring their safety.
"What about me? I want to join Fuentebella too!" Haru exclaimed.
"I've already arranged everything for you. An entertainment company affiliated with Fuentebella will employ you. You'll be protected, and your secret will remain safe," Mikhail assured him.
Haru's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Wow! That's fantastic!"
"Fuentebella can sponsor and back up you all, so there's no need to worry. I'll ensure that our family's secrets remain hidden and secure," Mikhail added confidently.
"As our family's lawyer, I'll ensure that no one can win against us," Kyle chimed in.
Kaye smiled gratefully. "Thank you for all your hard work, guys."
Mikhail kissed her forehead affectionately. "Anything for our family."
She smiled again and nodded.
Days later, Haru issued a statement addressing their situation, revealing that they had all known each other since childhood. They initially met at the park and became playmates and friends. However, as they grew older, they pursued their studies and careers, eventually drifting apart. The day they were seen together at the theme park was when they reunited and decided to spend time together. He clarified that they were not involved in Fuentebella's business and were simply friends with Mikhail. Regarding being spotted with the mayor, Haru added that the mayor came to see Mikhail that day and reconciled with Fuentebella. With this statement, public interest waned, and the issue was soon forgotten.